Burlington's fresh start this spring will stem from a more independent legislative body, according to Progressive Ward-2 City Councilor Jane Knodell.

"I will argue that we want a healthy, democratic debate about the big issues," she said. "We think it's healthy to be asking questions, vetting proposals and getting more than one solution to a problem."

A shift in numerical strength on the council might drive those points home.

The aftermath of Mayor Miro Weinberger's decisive victory on Tuesday left his own party diminished on the council. Democrats lost its majority position.

Previously, Democrats on the 14-member body numbered seven. Five Progressives, one independent and one Republican completed the roster.

A council that won't routinely hew to the mayor's agenda "is something that we've slipped away from in recent times," Knodell said.

When the newly configured 12-member council begins early next month, Democrats and Progressives will balance out, four-to-four; with three independents and a Republican as swing-votes.

Knodell said she is strongly considering a run for Council President — a position that confers the right to set agendas and structure debate — and will probably announce her decision by the end of the week.

An obstructionist opposition to the mayor's policies would not ensue if she or any other non-Democrat takes that post, Knodell said.

Like the mayor, Knodell emphasizes the collaborative nature of much of the council's work with the administration.

Non-Democrats, she said, "were right there with the mayor" on most of the keystone issues of the past three years, such as the settlement with Citibank over Burlington Telecom and tax increases to solidify the budget.

"We'll continue to be collaborative," Knodell added.

Among the issues for which she said Progressives would assert their views:

Burlington Telecom

"As much local control, and as large a public ownership share as possible," Knodell said.

"In terms of the process, we want to have more than one solution presented to the council, not just a yes-or-no on one solution that comes forward. We want to be part of that strategizing. We want nothing taken off the table.

"And — is there an avenue there for the taxpayer to get full recovery of the $16.9 million?

"You've got to have a business structure that ensures that it's tied to the local economy; that we're not selling this out to the highest bidder. We see it as a key asset for the generation of good jobs."

Housing, building

"We'd like to see economic inclusion. How much are we going to rely on just increasing the supply of housing to address affordability?" she asked.

"Progressives are open to increasing supply, but they're a bit skeptical that it would reduce rents across the board.

"You have to continue building housing that is affordable to medium-income people and below."

Again, Knodell stressed her reluctance to indulge in partisan show-downs.

"We do want a very strong city council. We think that that leads to better decisions, better outcomes for all of us in the end," she said.

"There's always more than one way of looking at something. Nobody has all the right answers."